Lena Horne’s Historic Queens Home for Sale

Imagine living in a home that echoes with the legacy of a true icon. A significant piece of Black history is now available for purchase in New York City! Lena Horne’s former residence, a stunning 1926 Tudor home where the legendary performer spent some of her most influential years, has hit the market for $1.225 million. This isn’t just a house; it’s a tangible connection to a pivotal era of American culture and civil rights.

A Sanctuary in St. Albans

Nestled in the Addisleigh Park Historic District of St. Albans, Queens, at 112-45 178th Street, this historic property offers more than just living space. It represents a chapter of defiance and achievement. When Lena Horne purchased this home in 1946, she broke barriers in a neighborhood with a history of restrictive covenants designed to exclude Black families.

Her presence, along with that of other Black luminaries, helped transform Addisleigh Park into what became known as the “African American Gold Coast.” This enclave became home to cultural titans like Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Jackie Robinson, and James Brown, making Horne’s home a part of a vibrant, groundbreaking community.

A Life of Courage and Activism

For nearly two decades, from 1946 to 1962, this Queens sanctuary was Lena Horne’s haven. While her voice captivated audiences and her image graced movie screens, her unwavering commitment to justice was perhaps her most defining characteristic. She famously refused to perform for segregated USO audiences during World War II, choosing instead to sing for Black soldiers.

Horne was a dedicated partner to the NAACP, a relentless advocate against racial inequality, and a participant in the March on Washington. This home was where she lived during these transformative years, balancing a demanding career with her passionate activism.

Echoes of the Past

The current owner, attorney Camille Chin-Kee-Fatt, who purchased the property from the family that acquired it directly from Horne, shared a poignant memory. “When I bought the house, it had an old bar in the basement,” she told the New York Post. “I had to get rid of it, because it was falling apart, but I always think, ‘My goodness, if this bar could talk.’” It’s easy to imagine the conversations and moments that unfolded within these walls.

The home’s historical significance was formally recognized in 2011 when it was designated as part of the Addisleigh Park Historic District. As this remarkable property changes hands once again, it serves as a powerful reminder of Lena Horne’s courage, her enduring impact on culture, and the enduring spirit of Black achievement in America.